As of August 24, 2023, all professional users of polyurethane resins must have undergone mandatory training on the safe use of diisocyanates. The European REACH legislation introduces this obligation to minimise the potential risks of exposure.
The responsibility for the training lies with the employer of the users. In this article we would like to explain what this means for the use of our Protolin® and Lofit® resins.
Why is this an obligation
Protolin® and Lofit® are two-component resins in which the MDI component contains diisocyanates. When used safely according to the installation instructions, users do not come into contact with MDI. This has been confirmed by an independent resarch of TNO.
However, careless use of products containing diisocyanates can lead to exposure and irreversible hypersensitivity. That is why REACH introduces this mandatory training; to minimise the potential risks of exposure.
What does this mean for our customers
Protolin® resins are used for the mechanical insulation of all LoviSil® cable joints. It concerns:
- Protolin® 4000
- Protolin® 4010
- Protolin® 4030
Lofit® resin is used for glueing the inner joint of the LoviSil® KB and MK series.
As of August 23, 2023, all users must have completed adequate training. The European Diisocyante & Polyol Producers Association (ISOPA) and the European Aliphatic Isocyanates Producer Association (ALIPA), together with industrial partners, have developed an online training program to train users of diisocyanate according to EU guidelines.
What does the training involve
Our industry falls under the construction sector: 048 Professional Application of adhesives and sealants / Small packaging at ambient temperature. The REACH restriction distinguishes three training levels: basic training (level 1), advanced training (level 2) and advanced training (level 3). Basic training, level 1, is required for the use of the Protolin® and Lofit® resins.
It is an online training course of 30 minutes with different topics and a final test. The test consists of 10 questions, of which at least 8 must be answered correctly. After completing the training course and answering 8 questions correctly you will receive a certificate. The costs for this training course are € 5.00 per participant. To proceed with the training course you can visit the website https://isopa-aisbl.idloom.events/
Finally
From mid-April 2023, all our Protolin® and Lofit® packaging will be provided with the following information: “As from 24 August 2023 adequate training is required before industrial or professional use”.
